Electronic book with voice emulation features

ABSTRACT

A method and system for providing text-to-audio conversion of an electronic book displayed on a viewer. A user selects a portion of displayed text and converts it into audio. The text-to-audio conversion may be performed via a header file and pre-recorded audio for each electronic book, via text-to-speech conversion, or other available means. The user may select manual or automatic text-to audio conversion. The automatic text-to-audio conversion may be performed by automatically turning the pages of the electronic book or by the user manually turning the pages. The user may also select to convert the entire electronic book, or portions of it, into audio. The user may also select an option to receive an audio definition of a particular word in the electronic book. The present invention allows a user to control the system by selecting options from a screen or by entering voice commands.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.13/757,409, filed Feb. 1, 2013, which is a Continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 13/298,898, filed Nov. 11, 2011, which is adivisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/344,499, filed Jun. 25, 1999.These applications are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention is directed to an electronic book unit having one or moreelectronic books. More specifically, the invention relates to anapparatus and method for providing text-to-speech and speech recognitionfeatures for electronic books.

BACKGROUND ART

Sparked by the concept of an information superhighway, a revolution willtake place in the distribution of books. Not since the introduction ofGutenberg's movable typeset printing has the world stood on the brink ofsuch a revolution in the distribution of text material. The definitionof the word “book” will change drastically in the near future. Due toreasons such as security, convenience, cost, and other technicalproblems, book and magazine publishers are currently only able todistribute their products in paper form. This invention solves theproblems encountered by publishers.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Methods and apparatus consistent with the present invention includefeatures for text-to-speech conversion and speech recognition forelectronic books. In one embodiment, the methods and apparatus display apage of an electronic book on a viewer, the page including text. Theyreceive a selection of text on the displayed page for conversion tospeech and convert at least a portion the selected text into thecorresponding speech. They may alternatively automatically display anext page of the electronic book and convert at least a portion of texton the next page into corresponding speech, or automatically perform theconversion upon selection of the next page by a user.

In one embodiment, a user selects a portion of displayed text andconverts it into audio. The text-to-audio conversion may be performedvia a header file and pre-recorded audio for each electronic book, viatext-to-speech conversion, or other available means. The user may selectmanual or automatic text-to audio conversion. The automatictext-to-audio conversion may be performed by automatically turning thepages of the electronic book or by the user manually turning the pages.The user may also select to convert the entire electronic book, orportions of it, into audio. The user may also select an option toreceive an audio definition of a particular word in the electronic book.The present invention allows a user to control the system by selectingoptions from a screen or by entering voice commands.

For voice or audible commands, the methods and apparatus receive anaudible command relating to a function of the electronic book. Theyconvert the audible command into a corresponding electronic signal andexecute the function in response to the electronic signal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the primary components of the electronicbook selection and delivery system.

FIG. 2 is a schematic showing an overview of the electronic bookselection and delivery system.

FIG. 3 a is a schematic of the delivery plan for the electronic bookselection and delivery system.

FIG. 3 b is a schematic of an alternate delivery plan.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an operations center.

FIG. 5 a is a flow diagram of the processing at the operations centerand uplink.

FIG. 5 b is a block diagram of the hardware configuration for an uplinksite.

FIG. 6 a is a block diagram of the hardware configuration for a fourcomponent home subsystem.

FIG. 6 b is a schematic of a two unit home subsystem.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of the processes performed by the videoconnector.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram for an example of a library unit.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of some of the processes performed by thelibrary on the received data stream.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of the processes performed by the library uniton information requests from the viewer.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the components for an example of aviewer.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of some of the processes performed by theviewer on an information request from a subscriber.

FIG. 13 is a chart depicting the menu structure and sequencing of menusin the menu system.

FIG. 14 a is a schematic of an introductory menu.

FIG. 14 b is a schematic showing an example of a main menu.

FIGS. 14 c, 14 d, 14 e, 14 f, 14 g, 14 h, 14 i and 14 j are schematicsshowing examples of submenus.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an electronic book system for abookstore or public library.

FIG. 16 a and FIG. 16 b are schematics of hardware modifications orupgrades to a set top converter.

FIG. 17 is a schematic showing a set top terminal that includes a datareceiver and data transmitter.

FIG. 18 a is a schematic of a book-on-demand system.

FIG. 18 b is a schematic of an operations center supporting abook-on-demand system.

FIG. 19 is a diagram of a main menu screen for presenting on a viewervoice emulation options for electronic books.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart of a main menu routine.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart of a manual text-to-speech routine.

FIG. 22 is a diagram of a book menu screen.

FIG. 23 is a diagram of a page of an electronic book.

FIG. 24 is a diagram of a page of an electronic book illustratingselected text for conversion to speech.

FIG. 25 is a flow chart of an automatic text-to-speech routine with anautomatic page turn feature.

FIG. 26 is a flow chart of an automatic text-to-speech routine with amanual page turn feature.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart of a settings routine.

FIG. 28 is a diagram of a settings menu.

FIG. 29 is a flow chart of a dictation routine.

FIG. 30 a is a diagram of a page of an electronic book with transcribedtext.

FIG. 30 b is a diagram of a page of an electronic book with a sectionfor presenting transcribed text.

FIG. 31 is a flow chart of a view book routine.

FIG. 32 is a diagram of a view book screen.

FIG. 33 is a flow chart of a voice commands routine.

FIG. 34 is a flow chart of a voice security routine.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An electronic book selection and delivery system is a new way todistribute electronic books to bookstores, public libraries, schools andconsumers. The technological breakthroughs of this invention provide asecure system for both delivering selected electronic books andreceiving payments. The system has an unusual combination of featuresthat provides the consumer with an electronic book unit that has a hightech aura while being very practical, portable, and easy to use.

The clear advantage of the system is that it eliminates the distributionof any physical object such as a paper book or computer memory devicefrom any book or text distribution system. The purchase of an electronicbook may become a PAY-PER-READ™ event avoiding the overhead,“middle-men,” printing costs, and time delay associated with the currentbook distribution system. Published material and text such as thePresident's speech, a new law, a court decision on abortion, or O. J.Simpson's testimony can be made immediately available to the consumer ata nominal fee.

The system is a novel combination of new technology involving thetelevision, cable, telephone, and computer industries. It uses highbandwidth data transmissions, strong security measures, sophisticateddigital switching, high resolution visual displays, novel controls, anduser friendly interface software.

The primary components of the text delivery system are the subsystem forplacing the text onto a signal path and the subsystem for receiving andselecting text that was placed on the signal path. A preferredembodiment of the system includes additional components and optionalfeatures that enhance the system. The system may be configured for useby bookstores, public libraries, schools and consumers.

The system for consumer use is made up of four subsystems, namely: (1)an operations center, (2) a distribution system, (3) a home subsystemincluding reception, selection, viewing, transacting and transmissioncapabilities, and (4) a billing and collection system.

The operations center performs several primary functions: manipulatingtext data (including receiving, formatting and storing of text data),security encoding of text, cataloging of books, providing a messagingcenter capability, and performing uplink functions. The system deliversthe text from the operations center to consumer homes by inserting textdata into an appropriate signal path. The insertion of text is generallyperformed with an encoder at an uplink site that is within or near theoperations center. If the signal path is a video signal path, the systemcan use several lines of the Vertical Blanking Interval (VBI), all thelines of the analog video signal, a digital video signal or unusedportions of bandwidth to transmit text data. Using the VBI deliverymethod, the top ten or twenty book titles may be transmitted with videoduring normal programming utilizing existing cable, satellite, wirelessor broadcast transmission capability without disruption to thesubscriber's video reception. Using the entire video signal, thousandsof books may be transmitted within just one hour of air time. Nearly anyanalog or digital video distribution system may be used to deliver thevideo signal with included text.

The text data may also be transmitted over other low and high speedsignal paths including a telephone network (e.g., a public switchedtelephone network) having a high speed connection such as anasynchronous digital subscriber line (ADSL) connection. Alternatively,other delivery systems may be used, such as those disclosed in therelated applications identified above.

The home subsystem performs four primary functions: connecting to thevideo distribution system, selecting text, storing text, and transactingthrough a phone or cable communicating mechanism. The components of thehome subsystem may be configured in a variety of hardwareconfigurations. Each function may be performed by a separate component,the components may be integrated, or the capability of existing cableset top converter boxes, personal computers, and televisions may beutilized. Preferably, a connector, library unit and an electronic bookunit, or viewer unit, are used. The connector portion of the homesubsystem receives the analog video signal and strips or extracts thetext from the video. The home library stores the text signal, provides auser friendly software interface to the system and processes thetransactions at the consumer home. The viewer provides a screen forviewing text or menus and novel user friendly controls. The viewer mayalso incorporate all the functionality of the home subsystem.

The viewing device is preferably a portable book shaped viewer whichstores one or more electronic books for viewing and provides a screenfor interacting with the home library unit. A high resolution LCDdisplay is used to both read the books and to interact with the homelibrary software. An optional phone connector or return-path cableconnection initiates the telephone calls and, with the aid of thelibrary, transmits the necessary data to complete the ordering andbilling portion of the consumer transaction. The user friendly controlsinclude a bookmark, current book and page turn button. The billing andcollection system performs transaction management, authorizations,collections and publisher payments automatically utilizing the telephonesystem. Alternatively, other ordering methods may be used, such as thosedisclosed in the related applications identified above.

In one embodiment, the primary components of the electronic bookselection and delivery system 200 are an encoder 204, a videodistribution system 208, a connector 212, and a text selector 216 asshown in FIG. 1. The encoder 204 places textual data on a video signalto form a composite video signal. Although the composite signal maycontain only textual data, it usually carries both video and textualdata. A variety of equipment and methods may be used to encode text dataonto a video signal. The video distribution system 208 distributes thecomposite video signal from the single point of the encoder 204 tomultiple locations which have connectors 212. The connector 212 receivesthe digital or analog video signal from the video distribution system208 and separates, strips or extracts the text data from the compositevideo signal. If necessary, the extracted text data is converted into adigital bit stream. Text selector 216 works in connection with theconnector 212 to select text.

Using a connector 212 and text selector 216 combination, various methodsof selecting and retrieving desired text from a composite or videosignal are possible. Text may be preselected, selected as received orselected after being received and stored. A preferred method is for theconnector 212 to strip or extract all the text from the video signal andhave the text selector 216 screen all the text as received from theconnector 212. The text selector 216 only stores text in long term orpermanent memory if the text passes a screening process described below.

An overview of the electronic book selection and delivery system 200 isshown in FIG. 2. The delivery system 200 includes: an operations center250 including an uplink site 254, a video distribution system 208, ahome system 258 including a video connector 212, a library 262, a viewer266, and a phone connector 270, telephone system 274, an internet website 279 and a billing and collection system 278. Also as shown in FIG.2, the home system 258 may include connections to a television 259 and apersonal computer 261. The television 259 and the personal computer 261may be used to display menu screens, electronic books, electronic files,or any other information associated with the delivery system 200. Inaddition, the television 259 and the personal computer 261 may providecontrol function that replicate and supplement those of the viewer 266.

The operations center 250 receives textual material from outside sources282 such as publishers, newspapers, and on-line services. Alternately,the outside sources may maintain electronic books at the Internet website 279. The outside sources 282 may convert textual and graphicalmaterial to digital format, or may contract with another vendor toprovide this service. The operations center 250 may receive the textualand graphical material in various digital formats and may convert thetextual material to a standard compressed format for storage. In sodoing, the operations center 250 may create a pool of textual materialthat is available to be delivered to the home system 258. The textualmaterial may be grouped by books or titles for easy access.

As used herein, “book” means textual or graphical information such ascontained in any novels, encyclopedias, articles, magazines or manuals.The term “title” may represent the actual title assigned by an author toa book, or any other designation indicating a particular group, portion,or category of textual information. The title may refer to a series ofrelated textual information, a grouping of textual information, or aportion of textual data. For example, “Latest Harlequin Romance”, “FourChild Reading Books (Ages 10-12)”, “Encyclopedia ‘BRITANNICA’™”,“President's Speech”, “Instruction Manual”, “Schedule of 4th of JulyEvents”, “Pet Handbooks”, “Roe v. Wade”, and “The Joy of Cooking” aresuitable titles. Also, the title may be a graphical symbol or icon.Thus, a picture of a wrench may be a title for a repair book, a pictureof a computer a title for a computer book, a graphical symbol of atelephone a title for a telephone book, a drawing of a dagger a titlefor a mystery book, a picture of a bat and ball a title for a sportsbook and a picture of tickertape a title for a business book. The term“electronic book” refers to the electronic counterpart to a “book.”

The operations center 250 includes an uplink site 254 for placing thetext onto a video signal and sending the composite video signal into avideo distribution system. The uplink site 254 would generally includean encoder 204 (not shown in FIG. 2) to encode the text onto a videosignal.

Many analog and digital distribution systems 208, or othertelecommunications systems, can be used with the delivery system 200,such as a cable television distribution system, a broadcast televisiondistribution system, video distributed over telephone systems,distribution from the Internet, direct satellite broadcast distributionsystems, and other wired and wireless distribution systems.

The home system 258 performs five primary functions: (1) connecting witha video distribution system, (2) selecting data, (3) storing data, (4)displaying data, and (5) handling transactions. An important optionalfunction of the home sub-system 258 is communicating using a telephonecommunication system 274. The home system 258 is made up of primarilyfour parts: a video connector 212 or similar type of connector forconnecting with the video distribution system 208, a library unit 262for storing and processing, an electronic book, or viewer unit, 266 forviewing menus and text and a telephone connector 270 for connecting witha telephone communications system 274. In an alternate arrangement, theviewer 266 may include all the functionality of the home system 258.

The billing and collection system 278 may be co-located with theoperations center 250 or located remote from the operations center 250.In one embodiment, the billing and collection system 278 is incommunication with the home system 258 via telephone-type communicationsystems (for example 274). Any of a number of telephone typecommunication systems, such as, a cellular system, will operate with thebilling and collection system 278. The billing and collection system 278records the electronic books or portions of text that are selected orordered by the subscriber. The collection system will charge asubscriber's credit account or bill the subscriber. In addition, thebilling and collection system 278 will monitor that amount due topublishers or other outside sources 282 who have provided textual dataor other services such as air time to enable the text delivery system200 to operate.

When electronic books are provided via the Internet web site 279, thebilling and collecting functions may be incorporated into the Internetweb site 279. For example, a subscriber may pay for an electronic bookselection by entering a credit card number into a data field of a pageof the Internet web site 279. In this configuration, a separate billingand collection system may not be required.

FIG. 3 a is an expanded overview of a delivery plan 301 for the deliverysystem 200. The delivery plan 301 supports various types of subscribersand various billing systems. FIG. 3 a shows that publishers 282 willprovide text transfer 302 to the operations center 250′ and receivepayments 306 from the billing and collection system 278′. A separatechannel uplink site 254′ is shown in this configuration receiving data310 from the operations center 250′. The operations center 250′ hasthree separate sections (318, 322, 326) one for text receiving,formatting and re-entry 318, a second for security encoding 322 and athird section for catalog and messaging center functions 326.

The billing and collection system 278′ shown has two sections (330, 334)one for transaction management, authorizations and publisher payments330, and the other for customer service 334. The customer servicesection 334 provides for data entry and access to customer accountinformation. Transaction accounting information 338 is supplied tocredit card companies 342 by the transaction management section 330 ofthe billing and collection system 278′. The credit card companies 342provide billing 346 to customers either electronically or by mail.

Three methods for communicating between the subscriber base 348 and thebilling and collection system 278′ are shown: by telephone switching 350alone, cellular switching 354 and telephone switching 350 combined, andby use of the cable system 358 and the telephone switching 350. Thesystem shown supports both one-way 362 and two-way cable communication366 with subscribers. Public libraries and schools 370 as well asbookstores 374 may use the delivery system 301.

Public libraries and schools 370 would have a modified system to allowthe viewer 266 to be checked-out or borrowed while bookstores 374 wouldrent or sell the viewer 266 and sell the electronic books. Thebookstores 374 as well as the public libraries and schools 370 may beserviced by cable 378. Optional direct broadcast systems (DBS) 382 canalso be used with the delivery system 200. The DBS 382 may provide theelectronic books using digital satellite technology, with the electronicbooks being received via a backyard satellite antenna, for example.

FIG. 3 b is an alternate delivery plan 301′ that provides for electronicbook selection and delivery using the Internet. In FIG. 3 b, thepublishers 282 provide the electronic books to be posted at the Internetweb site 279. The publishers may convert the text and graphical data todigital format, compress the digital data, and upload the compresseddigital data to the Internet web site 279. Alternately, the publishers282 may arrange for an outside conversion activity 283 to convert thetext and graphical data to digital format. The conversion activity 283may then provide the digital data to the Internet web site 279. Forexample, a large on-line bookstore could gather publications inelectronic form from a variety of publishers, or could convert hard-copybooks to electronic form, and post the electronic books on the Internetsuch as at the Internet web site 279.

The electronic books may then be transferred via a public switchedtelephone network (PSTN), for example, direct to a subscriber 285, alibrary 286 and a bookstore 287. The library 286 and the bookstore 287may also provide electronic books to the subscriber 285.

I. The Operations Center

FIG. 4 is a schematic of an operations center 250 which includes anuplink 254. The operations center 250 gathers text or books byreceiving, formatting, storing, and encoding. A data stream 302containing text is received at the operations center 250 by a datareceiver 402. The data receiver 402 is under the control of a processor404. After reception, the data stream is formatted using digital logicfor formatting 406 which is also under the control of the processor 404.If any additional text is being generated at the operation center 250locally for insertion into the distributed signal, the text generationis handled through text generator hardware 410 which may include a datareceiver and a keyboard (not shown). Following processing by the textgenerator 410, the additional text can be added to the text received bythe combining hardware 414 that includes digital logic circuitry (notshown).

The processing at the operations center 250 is controlled by a processor404 which uses an instruction memory 416. The processor 404 andinstruction memory 416 may be supplied by a personal computer ormini-computer. To perform the catalog and messaging functions, theoperations center 250 uses a catalog and message memory 420 and the textgenerator 410 if necessary.

The data stream of text, catalog and messages is preferably encoded bysecurity module encoding 424 prior to being sent to the uplink module254. Various encoding techniques may be used by the security encodingmodule 424 such as the commercial derivative of NSA's encryptionalgorithm (Data Encryption System (DES)) and General Instrument'sDigiCipher II. Following encoding, the encoded text may be stored intext memory 428 prior to being sent to the uplink 254. Afirst-in-first-out text memory arrangement may be used under the controlof the processor 404. Various types of memory may be used for the textmemory 428 including RAM. The operations center 250 may use file servertechnology for the text memory 428 to catalog and spool electronic booksfor transmission as is described below.

To transmit textual data (i.e., electronic books), the delivery system208 uses high bandwidth transmission techniques such as those defined bythe North American Broadcast Teletext Standard (NABTS) and the WorldSystem Teletext (WST) standard. Using the WST format (where each line ofthe Vertical Blanking Interval contains 266 data bits), a four hundredpage book, for example, may be transmitted during programming using fourlines of the Vertical Blanking Interval at a rate of approximately onebook every 1.6 minutes (63,840 bits per second). Alternatively,electronic books may be transmitted over a dedicated channel, whichinterrupts programming so that 246 lines of video can be used totransmit approximately 2,250 books every hour (3.9 Mbits per second). Ateletext type format is the simplest but possibly the slowest textformat to use with the delivery system 200. In either event, an encoder204 is utilized at an uplink site 254 to insert textual data into theanalog video signal. In many other respects, the delivery of the textualinformation is completed using existing cable television plant andequipment.

FIG. 5 a is a flowchart of the steps involved in processing text fromthe publisher or provider 282 that occurs at the operations center 250.As shown in block 500, the publisher 282 processes data files of textfor books, compresses, encrypts and sends the data files to theoperations center 250 or uplink 254. Text files for books are preferablysent one book at a time. As shown in block 504, the uplink 254 oroperations center 250 receives and processes the data stream from thepublisher 282. Generally, part of this processing includes encryptionand error correction.

As shown in block 508, files are broken into smaller packets ofinformation. Header information is added to the packets. The bit streamis converted from a serial digital bit stream to an analog bit streamthat is compatible with an NTSC video signal. Block 512 shows theswitching of analog data into the video lines of a video signal. Theanalog data is generally placed either in the VBI or the active videolines. In some instances, it may be preferable to utilize unusedportions of bandwidth (such as 5-40 MHZ, 70-75 MHZ, 100-109 MHZ or otherguard bands) instead of the video lines.

FIG. 5 b is an example of a hardware configuration to perform some ofthe functions for blocks 508 and 512. A video feed 516 is received andprocessed through a sync stripper 520. The stripped sync signal 532 isused by the digital logic control 524. The digital logic control 524receives the sync signal 532 and a serial digital bit stream 528 forprocessing. The digital logic control 524 passes the serial digital bitstream to the Digital to Analog converter 536 and outputs a controlsignal 540 for the video switch 544. The video switch 544 integrates thevideo feed 516 and analog data stream 548 into a video feed with analogdata signal inserted 552.

As an alternative to cable, satellite, broadcast, or other televisiondelivery methods, the public telephone system may be used to transmitbooks to the subscribers. An average electronic book would take about 7minutes to transmit over the public telephone system. Using thetelephone system, it is not necessary to combine video and text into acomposite signal. In most other respects, the operation center wouldremain similar whether text delivery was by telephone or cable. Fileserver technology (such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,262,875,entitled AUDIO/VIDEO FILE SERVER INCLUDING DECOMPRESSION/PLAYBACK MEANS,issued to Mincer, et al., and, U.S. Pat. No. 5,218,695, entitled FILESERVER SYSTEM HAVING HIGH-SPEED WRITE EXECUTION, issued to Noveck, etal., incorporated herein by reference) may be used at the operationcenter with a telephone system text delivery method.

As another alternative to cable, television, and telephone systemdelivery, the public telephone system may be used to provide access tothe Internet, where the Internet web site 279 may be accessed.Electronic books may be ordered, paid for, and delivered directly fromthe Internet web site 279 over the telephone system.

In any delivery system using the telephone system, individualsubscribers may increase the electronic book deliver rate byincorporating high speed modems or other communication devices such asan Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) connector, or by use of anAsymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL).

II. The Home System

The hardware configuration for a four component home system 258 is shownin FIG. 6 a. FIG. 6 b shows a hardware configuration for a two componenthome system. The hardware components may also be incorporated into asingle unit that communicates with a terminal in a television deliverysystem or with a telephone system by use of a modem, for example. Thehome system 258 performs several functions, such as receiving data andvideo transmissions, stripping (or extracting) the data from the videosignal, screening and storing the data, providing user friendlyinterface controls and software, displaying menus and text, processingtransactions, initiating telephone calls and transmitting billing data.Various hardware configurations may be utilized to achieve the desiredfunctions of the home system 258. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 b, thehome system 258 can be configured to utilize the reception and channeltuning capability of the current installed subscriber base of cableconverter boxes and televisions 601. The home system 258 can also bedesigned as an advanced set top terminal converter box with menugeneration capability, electronic memory and a telephone modem asdescribed in section V below.

The electronic components which make up the home system 258 can bearranged in a variety of ways. In the four unit system of FIG. 6 a theviewer 266 and library unit 262 are wired together while the remainingcomponents communicate through RF transceivers 604. In a simple versionof the home system 258 there are only two units, the library unit 262and a viewer 266. FIG. 6 b shows a two unit home system 258 with certainoptional features. Finally, all the functionality of the home system 258may be incorporated into one electronic book unit, or viewer.

The viewer 266 is generally equipped with a high resolution viewing area602, digital logic (including a key 605, security 606, and amicroprocessor 621), video graphics control and memory 607, power supplycircuitry 602 (not shown), an optional battery 603 and an optional RFtransceiver 604. In a two unit arrangement, the library unit 262contains the connector function to the video distribution system 208,connector function to a public telephone communications system, andmemory 600 (which may be removable and portable 600′). Morespecifically, the library unit 262 would include data strippingfunctions 617, digital logic 609, memory storage 600, power circuitry610, optional telephone connections 611 (including cellular or PCN611′), optional battery (not shown), optional tuner module 613 and anoptional RF transceiver 604. The video connector 212 and the publictelephone system connection 270, as well as the removable portablememory unit 600 of the library unit 262 may be broken out into separatecomponents. (FIG. 6 b shows a removable portable hard disk memory 600′with removable cartridges 614.) Finally, the home system 258 may includean attached keyboard 267 or a wireless keyboard 268. Both the attachedkeyboard 267 and the wireless keyboard 268 may be used to communicatewith the viewer 266 (not shown) or the library unit 262.

The wireless keyboard 268 may communicate via radio frequency (RF)signaling, for example. Therefore, the home system 258 may have as manyas six separate components which communicate with each other. The two,three, four, five or six separate components which make up the homesystem 258 can communicate with each other in a variety of ways,including hardwired connection 615, RF transceiver 604, and otherwireless methods.

RF communications are preferred in the home because they allow separatecomponents to be located throughout the home without restriction. Thedata communicated between the units is preferably secure data. Inaddition, the library unit 262 may provide power to the viewer 266through the hardwired connection 615.

Alternatively, a single unit may perform all of the home system 258functions. The single unit should use light-weight materials, includinga light-weight battery. A single unit eliminates the need to communicate(externally) between units. The single unit is less expensive andeliminates duplicative processing, memory storage and power circuitry.

To receive and strip the data from the video signal at the consumer'shome, either a cable interface device or cable connector 212 is used.The cable connector device includes a tuner 613, while the cableinterface device makes use of existing tuning equipment in the home. Ineither configuration, data is stripped from the video signal and storedat the subscriber's location in the library unit 262. The phoneconnector 270, and modem 611 initiate telephone calls and transmitordering and billing information to the operations center 250 or billingand collection system 278. Alternatively, the phone connecter 270 andthe modem 611 may be used to provide access to the Internet to order andreceive electronic books from an Internet web site. A digital connector619 is provided to communicate digital information with the set top 601.The library unit 262 is the intelligent component of the home system,incorporating the hardware and software necessary to store the textdata, generate menus and effect the purchase transactions. In additionto an RF transceiver 604, the library unit 262 also includes thenecessary jacks and connections to allow the delivery system 200 to beconnected to the viewer 266. As shown in FIG. 6 b, the library 262communicates the text data (electronic book) to the viewer 266 in asecure format which requires a key 605 for decryption. The text isgenerally only decrypted page by page just before viewing.

a. The Video Connector

FIG. 7 shows the flow of the processes performed by the video connector212. The video connector receives the video signal 608, tunes to thechannel containing the text data 612, strips the text data from thevideo signal 616, and communicates the text data stream to logiccomponents in the library 620.

The connection to the video distribution system is preferably a cableconnector to a cable television delivery system, as shown in FIG. 6 b.The cable connector includes a data stripper circuit 617, which acceptsvideo input from either a set top converter, TV or VCR 601, or anoptional tuner block 613 that receives the CATV signal through the cableconnector 212′. The data stripper circuit 617 strips data out of thevideo, and outputs a digital bit stream to the digital logic portion 609of the library unit 262. The data is embedded in the video signal eitherin the vertical blanking interval or the active video portion in anencrypted and compressed format. The data stripper circuit 617 can beplaced inside the set top converter box 601, TV, or in the library unit.The data stripper circuit 617 outputs the digital bit stream to be usedby the library digital logic 609.

The video connector 212 may also contain a channel tuner module 613 thatcan tune to the video channel and provide access to the video thatcontains the data to be stripped. Using the optional tuner module 613, aset top converter, VCR, or TV tuner is not needed in the home system.The optional tuner module 613 would instead receive the CATV signaldirectly through the cable connector 212.

b. Library

An embodiment of the library unit 262 for a two unit home system 258 isshown in both FIG. 6 b and FIG. 8. The embodiment shown includes thefollowing optional parts: the video connector 212, phone connector 270,RF transceiver 604, and battery pack 624 in addition to a removalportable memory 600′, microprocessor 628, instruction memory unit 632,digital logic 636, and power unit 640.

The library unit 262 contains a digital logic section 609 (not shown inFIG. 8) which includes the microprocessor 628, the digital logic 636 andthe instruction memory unit 632. The microprocessor 628 is preferably asecure microprocessor such as the Mot SC21 device sold by Motorola. Thedigital logic section 609 will receive the serial digital bit streamfrom the data stripper circuit 617 and process the data. Errorcorrection will also be performed by the digital logic section 609 andthe data will be checked for proper address. If the address of the datais correct and the library unit 262 is authorized to receive the data,the data will be transferred to the memory storage unit 600, 600′.Authorization to receive the data is provided by the cable headend oranother distribution point. An authorization code may be sent in theserial digital bit stream. The digital logic section 609 will sendappropriate text and graphical data to the memory storage unit 600,600′. It transfers this data in a compressed and encrypted format andthe data remains stored in a compressed and encrypted format.

i. Memory Storage Unit

The memory storage unit of the library may be a removable portablememory unit 600′ (as shown in FIGS. 6 a, 6 b and 8). A variety ofoptions are available for memory storage: a hard disk drive, a hard diskwith removable platters, and a CD ROM or memory stick. Referring to FIG.6 b, a hard disk drive unit 600′ which contains removable platters mayalso be used. This would provide virtually unlimited library storagecapacity. Data (i.e., electronic book files) may be stored in the memorystorage unit in a compressed and encrypted format. As is also shown inFIG. 6 b, the data may also contain a key or unique ID number thatmatches the ID or key of the viewer 266. This matching of a unique keyor ID number prevents unauthorized transfer of text data from the memorystorage unit to an unauthorized viewer. Small memory devices such assmart cards, electronic memory cards or PCMCIA cards or memory sticks(personal computer memory card industry association) may also be used tostore the data.

ii. Power Circuitry

As shown in FIGS. 6 b and 8, the library unit 262 may accept power fromeither AC wall power 610, DC power 640, or optional battery power 624.The power circuitry 610, 640 may provide all the voltage necessary fromeither the battery 624 or AC unit for the various circuitry in thelibrary. The power circuitry 610, 640 may also provide power to theviewer 266 through a single data cable when connected to the viewer. Thepower circuitry 610, 640 will recharge the battery using AC power whenin operation. With the optional battery unit 624 installed, the libraryunit 262 becomes a portable unit and can still provide power to theviewer 266. In order to extend battery life, power conservation measuresmay be utilized, such as shutting down the memory system when not inuse. When the viewer 266 is being utilized and the library circuitry isnot being utilized, virtually all power may be shut down to the libraryunit 262.

iii. Connection to the Public Telephone System

The connection to the telephone system may be provided by a modem 611.Various available modems may be used to perform this function. As shownin FIG. 6 b, cellular phone or PCN phone connections 611′ may also beprovided. When the home system 258 is first initialized, the modem maybe used to transfer the name and credit card information of the consumerto the billing and collection system 278. The telephone connection 270may be utilized each time an electronic book is purchased by a consumerto complete and record the transaction. The telephone connection 270 mayalso be used as a means for receiving the electronic books from theoperations center 250 or from an Internet web site, by-passing the videodistribution system 208. The phone connection 270 may be a separate unitas shown in FIG. 6 b.

iv. Library Processing

FIG. 9 shows an example of some basic processing performed by thelibrary unit 262 on the data stream 651 received from the videoconnector 212 or stripper circuit 617. First the data stream 651 ischecked for error correction by block 650. If an error is detected,block 654 de-interleaves the data followed by block 658 running a FEC(Forward Error Correcting) algorithm. The combination of block 650, 654and 658 perform the error correction needed on the data stream. If noerror correction is necessary the data proceeds to block 662 wherepackets are individually checked for packet address.

If the address is a unique address, block 666 checks whether the addressof the packet matches the library box ID number. The library box IDnumber is a unique number associated with that library unit 262 which isused to ensure security of the data. Block 670 determines whether anelectronic file has already been opened into which the data packet canbe saved. If no data file has been opened then block 674 opens a newdata file for that packet. If an electronic file has been opened, thenthe packet is saved in that electronic file on disk, block 678. Next,the process checks to see if this is the last packet for a particularbook for a particular textual data block being received 682. If it isthe last packet of information, then the electronic file is closed andthe directory of available electronic files is updated 686. Followingeither block 682 or 686, the process returns to receive another datapacket from the data stream received from the data stripper block.

If the packet address is checked and the address is determined to be abroadcast address, the process determines the type of message that isbeing sent 690. The message may be an index of book titles, menu (andmenu graphics) information, announcements, special offerings, discounts,promotions, previews etc. The message is then stored in appropriateelectronic message file 694 and the process is returned to block 650 toreceive another data packet and perform another error check.

Using the process of FIG. 9, the library unit 262 is able to receive,store and update directories related to the textual data and graphicaldata (that can be used to depict pictures in a given book or to generatemenus). Variations of the processes are possible depending on the formatof the data and operating system of the library unit 262.

FIG. 10 shows an example of the processing of information requests fromthe viewer 266 at the library unit 262. Information requests from theviewer 266 are received either through the cable connecting the viewer266 to the library unit 262 or through wireless transmissions such asRF. It is possible in some embodiments for subscribers' requests to comefrom a set top converter box 602 (see Section V).

Information requests received from the viewer 266 generally fall intothree categories: (1) directory data of electronic books stored in thelibrary unit 262, (2) index of all available electronic books on thesystem, and (3) requests for a specific electronic book (Block 700). Aget directory process 704 answers a request from the viewer 266 for adirectory of data showing the electronic books stored at the viewer 266.The directory of data is sent to the viewer 266 so that it may bedisplayed to the subscriber. A get index process 708 handles requestsfrom the viewer 266 for an index of all available electronic books onthe home system 258. The library unit 262 will obtain an index of allthe available books on the system and transmit that index, process 712,with menu information to the viewer 266. An open file process 716replies to a request from the viewer 266 for a specific electronic book.The library unit 262 opens an electronic file for the specificelectronic book requested by the viewer 266 and transmits the record ortransmits the information 720 on a packet-by-packet basis to the viewer266. This process of transmitting the specific electronic book, record,or packets to the viewer 266 continues until the last record or packethas been sent, 724.

In addition to the processes shown on FIG. 10 in handling a request fora specific electronic book, the library unit 262 also orders andreceives specific electronic books from the operations center 250 usingthe process as described in the open file process 716. Following arequest for a specific electronic book which is not stored at thelibrary unit 262, the library unit 262 will proceed to determine thenext available time the electronic book will be on the videodistribution system 208 and ensure reception and storage of thatelectronic book (process not shown). In performing this process thelibrary unit 262 will transmit to the viewer 266 information on when itwill obtain the text data for the electronic book so that the subscribermay view the electronic book. In addition to timing information, priceand other ordering information may also be passed by the library unit262 to the subscriber.

c. The Viewer

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the viewer 266 showing its internalcomponents. The viewer 266 of FIG. 11 is similar to the viewer 266depicted in FIG. 6 b. The viewer 266 is designed to physically resemblea bound book. The viewer 266 is made up of several primary componentsand several optional components: (1) LCD display 602, (2) digitalcircuitry (not shown), (3) video graphics controller 607′, (4) controls740, (5) book memory 728, (6) optional power supply circuitry 736, (7)optional battery 603′, (8) optional RF transceiver 604, (9) optionalcellular or mobile communicator (608), (10) optional keyboards 267 and268, (11) a speaker 633, and (12) a microphone 634.

-   -   (1) A high resolution LCD screen 602, preferably of VGA quality,        is used by the viewer 266 to display text and graphic images.        The screen is preferably the size of one page of a book. A two        page screen or two screens may also be used with the viewer 266.    -   (2) Digital circuitry that includes a secure microprocessor 621,        instruction memory 732, and digital logic. Data is transferred        to the viewer 266 in compressed and encrypted format. The secure        microprocessor 621 compares the ID number of the viewer 266 with        the incoming data stream and only stores the text data if the ID        number of the viewer 266 matches that within the incoming data        stream. It is preferred that the viewer 266 not output text data        or other data and that the data is decompressed and decrypted        only at the moment of viewing and only for the current page        being viewed. These measures are preferred because they provide        additional security against unauthorized access to data.    -   (3) A video graphics controller 607′ that is capable of        assisting and displaying VGA quality text and graphic images is        included in the viewer 266. The graphics controller 607′ is        controlled by the digital circuitry described above. Text may be        displayed in multiple font sizes.    -   (4) The viewer 266 of FIG. 11 has touch panel controls 740.        These unique and novel controls 740 allow the consumer to select        stored electronic books and electronic books from catalogues,        move a cursor, and turn pages in a book. Typically, preferred        controls 740 include forward and reverse page buttons 742, 741,        a ball (or trackball) 743 for cursor movement, one or more        selection buttons 745, a current book button 747 and a bookmark        button 749 (see FIG. 14 a).

The controls 740 should be easy to use and conveniently located.Referring to FIG. 14 a, the controls for the viewer 266 may be locatedbelow the screen 602 at the bottom portion of the viewer 266. The nextpage turn button 742 is the most used button 740 and may be locatedtowards the right edge of the page. The subscriber is likely to useright hand thumb movements to work the controls particularly the pageturn buttons 741, 742. Therefore, it is preferred that the buttons bearranged in such a manner that the buttons are easily controlled by asubscriber's right thumb. Generally, this can be accommodated either onthe lower portion of the viewer 266 (as shown) or along the right handmargin of the viewer 266 (not shown). The current book button 747 andbookmark button 749 are usually the least used of the controls 740.Therefore, in the example shown those buttons 747, 749 are located onthe inside portion towards the binder of the viewer 266.

Locating the ball 743 or other cursor movement device (such as fourpointer arrows —not shown) in the bottom center of the viewer 266 isboth easier for the subscriber to use and easier in manufacturing theviewer 266. The selection buttons for the cursor 745 are preferablylocated below the middle diameter of the cursor ball 743 on the rightand left sides of the ball as shown. If pointer arrows are used forcursor movement, a selection button 745 may be located in the center ofthe four arrow buttons (not shown). Again, the most used controls shouldbe located where a subscriber's right hand thumb would normally rest.

(5) Book memory 728 for at least one electronic book or more of text isincluded in the viewer 266. The memory 728 stores text and any graphicswhich represent pictures in a book. The memory 728 can also store menugraphics data. Two different memory 728 devices may be used in theviewer 266, one for the instructions for the microprocessor 621 in thedigital circuitry and a second type of memory may be used for the bookmemory 728 (and graphics). Various memory devices available on themarket may be used such as, ROM, RAM or a small hard disk. Since anelectronic book requires approximately 0.6 megabytes of storage, a smallhard disk providing approximately 60 MBytes of storage provides memoryto store approximately 100 electronic books. The large hard disk drivescurrently available allow for storage of thousands of electronic books.

Text for books may be displayed in various font sizes. To accommodatevarious fonts for display, a variety of fonts are stored in instruction732 or book memory 728. Thus larger or smaller fonts may be recalledfrom memory 621, 728 to create displays desired by the subscriber.

(6) Power supply circuitry 736 in the viewer 266 will accept power fromeither an AC power source or from an optional battery 603′, or thelibrary unit 262. The power supply circuitry 736 provides the necessaryvoltages to accommodate the various systems within the viewer 266.

(7) An optional battery 603′ is provided in a preferred embodiment. Thebattery 603′ is automatically recharged when AC power is available.

(8) An optional RF transceiver 604 which provided two-way data linkbetween the viewer 266 and other components of the home system can alsobe included in the viewer 266.

(9) Also, the viewer 266 may include a cellular transceiver for mobilecommunications.

(10) The optional wired (attached) keyboard 267 and wireless (e.g., RF)keyboard 268 (see FIG. 6 a) may be used with the viewer 266 to providecommunications between the subscriber and the viewer 266.

(11) and (12) The speaker 633 and the microphone 634 allow the viewer266 to provide audio signals to the subscriber, and allow the subscriberto provide an audio input. The speaker 633 and the microphone 634 may beused in conjunction with the cellular transceiver 608 or othertelecommunications equipment to provide for reception and transmissionof telephony and data.

The viewer 266 of FIG. 11 has parts available for providing connectionsto: a library 744, electronic card memory 748, CD ROM units 752, and aportable memory unit 756 (such as that shown in FIG. 6 b 600′). Variouselectronic memory cards such as PCMCIA can be used with this viewer 266.

Security, low power consumption and excellent display technology aredesired features of the viewer 266 design. The viewer 266 should belightweight and portable. The viewer 266 contains a software operatingsystem that allows electronic books to be stored, read and erased andincludes the capability to order electronic books and retain them inmemory 728 for a predefined period of time determined by the systemoperator. The software can be configured to allow the electronic book tobe read during a period of time (i.e., two weeks) and then automaticallyerased, read once and erased, or held in memory permanently. Each viewer266 has a unique key 605. All of the data storage is encrypted with thekey 605 for an individual viewer 266 to prevent more than one viewer 266accessing the text file or electronic book file.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of some of the processes executed by theviewer 266. Generally, the viewer 266 receives inputs from thesubscriber through touch panel controls 740. Alternately, the viewer 266receives inputs from a touchscreen display, the attached keyboard 267,or the remote keyboard 268. The subscriber's information requests arethen processed through an information request process 800 by the viewer266.

If the subscriber requests a menu of available electronic books, aselect available book process 804 will select a book menu. An open fileprocess 808 will open the electronic files which list the electronicbooks that are available (related to the category of topic of the menu)and display the menu with the names of the available electronic books.

If the subscriber selects a particular electronic book to read, then aselect a book process 812 will process the selection and determine theelectronic file that contains the specific electronic book. An open fileprocess 816 will open the file for that specific book and normallyaccess the first page. (If a pointer has already been set in thatelectronic book's file, the process may default to that page.) Adecision process 820 will then determine which page needs to bedisplayed. The decision process 820 will determine whether a next page,previous page or a book marked page needs to be displayed. If thepointer for the electronic file is not in the correct location then aget previous page process 828 will move the pointer and obtain theprevious page of data from the stored file. Otherwise, a get next pageprocess 824 will normally obtain the next page of text from the storedelectronic file. A decrypt and decompress process 832 will decrypt anddecompress the text data and send the data to the video display. Thevideo display will generally have a video display memory associated withit and the decrypt and decompress process 832 will send the datadirectly to that video display memory. The circuitry for the displaythen completes the process of displaying the page of text.

If the subscriber, through the controls 740, requests (from theinformation request process 800) that the power be turned off, then aprocess, 836, of turning the power off will be initiated. A save pointerprocess 840 saves the pointer in memory to the page number in the bookthat the viewer 266 is currently reading. A close files process 844closes all the electronic files and signals the power circuitry to shutdown the power to the various circuits in the viewer 266. The subscribermay also use the controls 740 to access other electronic files usingelectronic links embedded in a particular electronic file. An electroniclink system will be described later in detail.

With these examples of basic processes the viewer 266 is able to displaybook selections and display text from those books.

d. Menu System

Referring generally to FIG. 13, the delivery system 200 may have a menusystem 851 for selecting features and electronic books from the deliverysystem 200. The operating software and memory required for the menusystem 851 may be located at the viewer 266 (e.g., the instructionmemory 732 and/or book memory 728). However, it may also be located atthe library unit 262 (e.g., the instruction memory 632) or the libraryunit 262 and the viewer 266 can share the software and memory needed tooperate the menu system 851. Since the menus are usually displayed onthe viewer 266 and it is preferred that the viewer 266 be capable ofoperating in the absence of the library unit 262, the basic software andmemory to create the menus is more conveniently located at the viewer266.

The menu system 851 allows sequencing between menus and provides menugraphics for graphical displays such as on the LCD display 602 of theviewer 266. In a system which uses a set top converter these menus mayalso be displayed on a television screen. In the simplest embodiment,the menus provide basic text information from which the subscriber makeschoices. In more sophisticated embodiments, the menus provide visualdisplays with graphics and icons to assist the subscriber.

FIG. 13 depicts a menu system 851 with sequencing. The primary menus inthe system are an introductory menu 850, a main menu 854 and varioussubmenus 858. In the embodiment shown, there are three levels ofsubmenus 858. In certain instances one or two submenus 858 is sufficientto easily direct the subscriber to the selection or informationrequested. However, there are features in which three or more submenus858 make the user interface more friendly for the subscriber. Each levelof submenus 858 may consist of multiple possible menus for display. Theparticular menu displayed depends on the selection by the subscriber onthe previous shown menu. An example of this tree sequence of one to manymenus are the help submenus 887, 888. Depending upon the specific helprequested, a different level two help menu is displayed to thesubscriber.

An example of an introductory menu 850 is shown on FIG. 14 a. Generallythe introductory menu 850 introduces the viewer 266 to the system andprovides initial guidance, announcements and instruction. Theintroductory menu 850 is followed by a main menu 854, an example ofwhich is shown in FIG. 14 b. The main menu provides the viewer 266 withthe basic selection or features available in the system. FIG. 14 b is anexample of a main menu 854 offering many additional features andsubmenus 858 to the subscriber. For example, FIG. 14 b shows that theviewer 266 is able to choose by a point and click method, many optionsincluding: (1) free previews, (2) books you can order, (3) books in yourlibrary, (4) your current book, (5) help, (6) on-line services and (6)other system features. Following a selection on the main menu 854, acorresponding submenu 858 is shown.

FIG. 13 shows thirteen available primary or first level submenus. Theyare (1) account set up 862, (2) free previews 866, (3) book suggestionentries 855, (4) books in your library 872, (5) books you can order 878,(6) your current book 884, (7) help 887, (8) available features 890, (9)messages 893, (10) account information 896, (11) outgoing messagesubmenu 898, (12) show links 970, and (13) create links 980. FIG. 14 cis an example of a first level submenu for electronic books in yourlibrary 872. This “Book In Your Library” example submenu 872 shows sixavailable electronic books by title and author and provides thesubscriber with the ability to check a different shelf of books 874 orreturn to the main menu 854. FIGS. 14 d and 14 e show example submenus858 for electronic books that may be ordered using the “Books You CanOrder” submenu 878.

FIG. 14 f is an example of an order selection and confirmation menu880′, which provides a “soft keyboard” 975 for the subscriber to use inplacing an electronic book order and which confirms the subscriber'sorder. In this particular example, the subscriber is required to enter aPIN number to complete the subscriber's order. The “soft keyboard” 975could be configured as a full alpha-numeric keyboard, and may be used bythe subscriber to add additional information related to a book order. Analpha-numeric or similar password may be used to ensure the subscriberis an authorized subscriber. In an embodiment, the subscriber confirmsan order with a PIN or password and then receives a final confirmationscreen. The final confirmation screen is primarily text and may state:Your book order is now being processed via CABLE.

Your book will be delivered overnight and your VISA account will becharged $2.95.

Your book will be available for reading at 6:00 AM EST tomorrow. Makesure that:

-   -   1. your Library Unit and Cable Connection Unit are plugged in        with aerials up tonight; and    -   2. you tune your cable converter to THE BOOK Channel. The TV set        does not have to remain on.        or similar language.

Examples of the “Account Set Up Menu” 862 and further submenus 858related to account set up (which provide instructions and account input864) are shown in FIG. 14 g and FIG. 14 h. These submenus 858 allowinitialization of an account at the operations center 250 and orders tobe charged to credit cards. The submenus 858 include the ability toenter data related to your desired PIN number or password, credit cards,phone numbers, etc. It is preferred that the account set up be performedusing the telephone system. A confirmation menu verifies that theaccount has been properly set up with the desired PIN or password andcredit card.

Free previews for books 866 are also provided by submenus (868, 870).Examples of the free preview menus are shown in FIG. 14 i and FIG. 14 j.FIG. 14 i shows a menu depicting various electronic books for whichpreviews are available for viewing. Following an electronic bookselection, a screen submenu showing an excerpt of the selectedelectronic book cover's description is provided along with an excerptfrom a critic's review of the selected electronic book. In a preferredembodiment, this preview screen for a particular electronic book alsoallows the subscriber to select a submenu which provides informationabout the author. The book preview submenu may also include a stillvideo picture or graphics portraying a book cover or a scene from theelectronic book. An example of such a still video picture or graphics isshown in FIG. 14 j which depicts a preview screen 870 about the author.The video may also be provided according to MPEG standards as a shortmoving video clip. Such a clip could be an interview with the author,for example. The author's preview screen 870 shows a picture of theauthor, provides a short biography, and may allow the subscriber toorder the author's books. The price for ordering the authors variouselectronic books may also be shown on the menu. Alternatively, thepreviews may be provided through an electronic link system, which willbe described in detail later.

In addition to free previews, in more sophisticated embodiments, thedelivery system 200 provides the subscriber with an electronic booksuggestion feature (see 855). This is accomplished using the menu system851 and the processor with associated memory located at the viewer 266,library unit 262 or at the distribution point (1020 or 250). Whennecessary, information for the program suggestion feature is sent in thetext data of the composite or video signal to the home system 258. Withthis feature, books or authors are suggested to a subscriber based uponhistorical data of the subscriber's previous orders, demographics ormood of the subscriber, other indicators, and/or by text word searches.

In a book suggestion embodiment, text word searches of previewinformation (such as book cover descriptions, critics reviews andbiographies about the author) and/or text of books or other titles areperformed by the library unit 262 using databases stored in the librarymemory 600. Personalized book or author suggestions are made to thesubscriber by obtaining information from the subscriber indicative ofgeneral subscriber interests. Subscriber entries are solicited from thesubscriber preferably using the electronic book suggestion entriessubmenu 855. The system uses these subscriber entries either directly orindirectly to search for books or authors to suggest to the subscriber.

Generally, the book suggestion methods may be categorized into twocategories, either responsive methods (which respond to a series ofsubscriber menu entries), or intelligent methods (which analyze data tosuggest an electronic book). Using a responsive or intelligent method,the delivery system 200 determines a list of suggested titles or authorsand creates a second or third level submenu 856, 857 to suggest thetitles for subscriber selection.

Responsive methods of suggesting titles include, for example, the use ofmood questions, searching for authors, and keyword searching. Using theinstruction memory 732 and menu generation hardware (e.g., 607) of theviewer 266, a series of mood questions can be presented on menus todetermine a subscribers interest at a particular time. For thismethodology, the operations center's 250 processor 404 and instructionmemory 416 assign each title mood indicators (and subindicators) from agroup such as light, serious, violent, short, long, dull, exciting,complex, easy-read, young theme, old theme, adventure, romance, drama,fiction, science-fiction, etc. These indicators are sent to the homesystem 258 with the text data and are stored in library memory 600.Based upon the subscriber entries, the processor 404 associates a set ofindicators with the subscriber's request and a set of electronic bookswith matching indicators are located for suggesting to the subscriber.

Responsive searches for authors or keywords (a search word provided bythe subscriber) are generally performed by the library processor 628 andinstruction memory 632 on data stored in the library memory 600. Forexample, a keyword given by the subscriber may be searched for a matchin library memory 600 storing the book reviews, critics and previewsdatabases. Thus, if a subscriber provided an entry of the word“submarine” on an appropriate submenu, the title “Hunt For Red October”may be located by the library processor 628 using instruction from aroutine in the instruction memory 632.

Intelligent methods of suggesting programs include analyzing personalprofile data on the subscriber and/or historical data about thesubscriber such as past books ordered by the subscriber (or buy data).This method is preferred in a book on demand system and can be performedat the distribution point or operations center 250 by the on-siteprocessor 404 using subscriber databases stored in memory 428. The homesystem 258 receives the text data including program suggestioninformation from the distribution point or operations center 250 andgenerates the program suggestion submenus 855, 856, 857 using the sametext data receiving 212 and viewer menu generation hardware (e.g., 607,621) described above. Software routines and algorithms stored ininstruction memories (e.g. 632, 732) are used to analyze historical dataand book ordered data to determine a line of books to suggest to thesubscriber.

The algorithms for this powerful feature of suggesting books or authorsto subscribers are disclosed in great detail in U.S. Pat. No. 5,559,549,entitled REPROGRAMMABLE TERMINAL FOR SUGGESTING PROGRAMS OFFERED ON ATELEVISION PROGRAM DELIVERY SYSTEM, issued Sep. 24, 1996, and areincorporated herein by reference.

Referring to FIG. 13, submenus 858 are shown on the “Books In YourLibrary” submenu 872 and are preferably broken into shelf numbers withsubmenus for each shelf 874, 876. The submenus 858 for the “Books YouCan Order” submenu 878 is similarly broken out into submenus by shelves880, 882. These shelves may each be a category or genre of books.Electronic books may be grouped into categories such as best sellers,novels, fiction, romance, etc. See FIG. 14 d.

Referring to FIG. 13, the submenu 858 for “Your Current Book” 884 allowsa subscriber to select a current book 884 and then determine what pageto view. This selection is confirmed with a level two submenu 885. Thehelp submenu 887 provides the subscriber with additional help screens888. The submenus 858 for available features 890 are preferably brokenout into a sequence of separate submenus for each feature 891, 892.

Referring to FIG. 13, messages can also be sent with the delivery system200. A level one message screen provides the subscriber with the abilityto select from various messages the subscriber has pending 893. Eachmessage is then shown on a separate submenu screen 894, 895. The messagemay contain text and graphics.

Referring to FIG. 13, account information is shown on a level onesubmenu 896 and then follow-on submenus 858 show the recent orders andyour account balance 897. There is also a level one submenu for outgoingmessages 898 which has a follow-on submenu used as an input screen 899.

In addition to the specific features and submenus described in FIG. 13and FIG. 14 a through FIG. 14 j, many other variations and features arepossible. When a book is finally selected for viewing the title page 886will appear on the screen followed by a page of text.

III. The Billing and Collection System

The billing and collection system 278 (shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) utilizesthe latest technology in electronic transaction and telephone switchingto track orders, authorize deliveries, bill consumers, and creditpublishers automatically. The telephone calls initiated by the phoneconnector 270 are received by the billing and collection system 278which responds immediately without human intervention by placing theorder and charging the consumers credit card account. Data is compiledperiodically and publishers 282 are credited for sales of their books orother text. The billing and collection system 278 may also connect withsubscribers through two-way cable connections, cellular, or othercommunication means.

It is preferred that the billing and collection system 278 communicatewith the operations center 250 to track changes in available books andto provide statistical data to the operations center 250.

IV. Public Library, School, and Bookstore System

The electronic book system can be modified to be used at publiclibraries, schools and bookstores. FIG. 15 shows one possiblearrangement of components for a public library, school or bookstorelocation. The main unit at a public library, school or bookstore is thefile server 900. The file server 900 is a large electronic memory unitthat can store thousands of electronic books. Various electronic storagemeans may be used in the file servers, such as hard disks, read-write CDROMs and read-only CD ROMs. The system comprises five components; thefile server 900, a converter or video connector 904, a controller 908, aviewer 912, and a catalog printer 916. The software for controlling thesystem is primarily located in the controller 908. The converter orvideo connector 904 is similar to those described above. In thisconfiguration the controller unit 908 monitors the data beingtransferred to the file server 900 by the converter 904. The controller908 is preferably provided with a viewing screen and several controlbuttons. When it is necessary to have a larger screen to perform moresophisticated controlling of the system a viewer 266 may be connected tothe controller 908 and the viewer screen and controls 740 may be used.

The controller 908 is only able to download books to public viewers 912which are authorized to receive books from the particular file server900. For security reasons it is not desirable that the public viewer 912have access to more than one file server 900. In this way, security canbe maintained over the text data for books. It is preferred that thepublic viewer 912 be limited to receiving one or two electronic books ata time from the controller 908. When the subscriber of the public viewer912 needs a new or additional electronic book, the subscriber returnsthe viewer 912 to the school or public library where the subscriberreceives a new electronic book from the controller 908.

In order to track the electronic books that are available on the fileserver 900, the titles of the available books may be printed on acatalog printer 916. The catalog printer 916 is connected to the librarycontroller 908 and the titles of the electronic books are downloaded tothe catalog printer 916. None of the coded text for any of theelectronic books can be printed using the controller 908 and catalogprinter 916 of this system. In order to maintain security over the data,none of the electronic book data is allowed to be downloaded to theprinter 916. Once a complete printout of available electronic booktitles, magazines, or other textual material is complete, a hard copy ofthe catalog 920 can be maintained at the file server 900.

The system shown may also be used at bookstores. The bookstores can rentthe public viewer 912 to customers with the text for one or twoelectronic books loaded onto the public viewer 912. The public viewer912 may be provided with an automatic timeout sequence. The timeoutsequence would erase the textual data for the books after a certainperiod of time, for example, two weeks. It is expected that after aperiod of time (perhaps within two weeks) the renter would return thepublic viewer 912 to the bookstore and receive additional electronicbooks for viewing. Using this arrangement, it is also possible for thebookstore to (permanently) sell a viewer 912 to a regular customer. Thecustomer then returns to the bookstore from time to time to receivetextual data for an electronic book which the customer can then storepermanently on the customer's own viewer 912. Various otherconfigurations are possible for bookstores, schools and public librariesusing the file server 900 and public viewer 912 described.

V. Use of a Set Top Converter

Existing set top converters such as those made by Scientific Atlanta orGeneral Instruments are presently unequipped to handle the deliverysystem 200 of the present invention. Although set top converters may bebuilt which include the library functions, hardware modifications arenecessary in order to use the delivery system 200 with existing set topconverter technology.

FIGS. 16 a and 16 b are examples of hardware modifications or upgrades.A port is used to attach hardware upgrades described below to a set topterminal. Two upgrades are possible to set top converters 601 to assistin receiving and selecting electronic books. A menu generation cardupgrade (FIG. 16 a) and an information download unit (FIG. 16 b). Eachof these upgrades may be connected to the set top terminal unit throughan upgrade port. A four wire cable, ribbon cable, IEEE 1394 firewireinterface, USB interface, or the like may be used to connect the upgradeto the set top converter 601.

A card addition 950 to a set top converter 601 is depicted in FIG. 16 a.The card 950 shown provides the additional functionality needed toutilize the book selection system with existing set top converter 601technology. The card 950 may be configured to slip inside the frame of aset top terminal and become part of the set top terminal, an advancedset top terminal. The primary functions the card 950 adds to the set topconverter 601 are the interpreting of data signals, generating of menus,sequencing of menus, and, ultimately, the ability of the subscriber toselect an electronic book using either the television or a viewer 266.The card 950 also provides a method for a remote location, such as thecable headend, to receive information on electronic books ordered. Theelectronic books ordered information and control commands may be passedfrom the cable headend to the card 950 using telephone lines.

The primary components of the card 950 are a PC chip CPU 952, a VGAgraphic controller 954, a video combiner 956, logic circuitry 958, NTSCencoder 960, a receiver 962, demodulator (not shown), and a dialer 611′.The card 950 operates by receiving the data text signal from the cableheadend through the coaxial cable. The logic circuitry 958 of the card950 receives data 964, infrared commands 966, and synchronizationsignals (not shown) from the set top converter 601. Menu selections madeby the viewer 266 on the remote control are received by the set topconverter's 601 IR equipment and passed through to the card 950. Thecard 950 interprets the IR signal and determines the electronic book (ormenu) the subscriber has selected. The card 950 modifies the IR commandto send the information to the set top converter 601. The modified IRcommand contains the channel information needed by the set top converter601. Using the phone line 968 and dialer 611′, the card 950 is able totransmit electronic books ordered information to the cable headend. Itis also possible to receive the electronic books over the telephonelines and by-pass the video distribution system. In this embodiment, thetelephone system may be used to provide access to an Internet web siteto order and receive electronic books.

These commands are passed through the interface linking the set topterminal's microprocessor with the microprocessor of the hardwareupgrades. In this way, subscriber inputs, entered through the set topterminal keypad or remote control, can be transferred to any of thehardware upgrades for processing and responses generated therein canthen be sent back to the set top terminal for display. In a preferredembodiment the IR commands 966 are transferred from set top terminal 601to hardware upgrade.

Hardware upgrades may include a microprocessor, interactive software,processing circuitry, bubble memory, and a long-term memory device. Inaddition to these basic components, the hardware upgrade may make use ofan additional telephone modem or CD-ROM device.

The information download hardware upgrade 1001 (shown in FIG. 16 b)allows the subscriber to download large volumes of information from theoperations center 250 or cable headend using the set top converter 601.The hardware upgrade 1001 will enable subscribers to download data, suchas electronic books and magazines, to local storage. Primarily, thehardware upgrade 1001 is an additional local storage unit 1003 (e.g.,hard disk, floppy, optical disk or magnetic cartridge and may include amicroprocessor 1005, instruction memory 1007, and a random access memory1009, as shown in FIG. 16 b). Preferably, a small portable viewer 266 isalso provided with the upgrade 1001 to enable downloaded text to be readwithout the use of a TV.

The downloadable information may be text or graphics supplied by theoperations center 250 or cable headend. With this upgrade, electronicbooks may be downloaded and read anywhere with the portable viewer 266.Using this upgrade, books may be downloaded and stored in compressedform for later decompression. The electronic books would be decompressedonly at the time of viewing. Important text that the public desiresimmediate access may made available through this system. Text such asthe President's speech, a new law, or a recent abortion decisionrendered by the Supreme Court may be made immediately available.

In one embodiment, electronic book ordering information is stored ateach set top terminal until it is polled by the cable headend using apolling request message format. An example of a polling request messageformat consists of six fields, namely: (1) a leading flag at thebeginning of the message, (2) an address field, (3) a subscriber regiondesignation, (4) a set top terminal identifier that includes a pollingcommand/response (or P/F) bit, (5) an information field, and (6) atrailing flag at the end of the message. A similar response frame formatfor information communicated by the set top terminal to the cableheadend in response to the polling request may be used.

FIG. 17 shows a preferred set top converter that includes a datareceiver 617′ and a data transmitter 1011. The data transmitter providesupstream data communications capability between the set top converter601 and the cable headend. Upstream data transmissions are accomplishedusing the polling system described and, using a data transmitter 1011.Both receiver 617′ and transmitter 1011 may be built into the set topconverter 601 itself or added through an upgrade module. Regardless ofthe specific hardware configuration, the set top terminal's datatransmission capabilities may be accomplished using the hardware shownin FIG. 17.

FIG. 17 shows RF signals, depicted as being received by a data receiver617′ and tuner 613 working in unison. Both of these devices areinterfaced with the microprocessor 1013, which receives inputs 1015,from the subscriber, either through a set top converter's keypad, aremote control unit or the viewer 266. All cable signals intended forreception on the subscriber's TV are accessed by the tuner 613 andsubsequently processed by the processing circuitry 1017. This processingcircuitry 1017 typically includes additional components (not shown) fordescrambling, demodulation, volume control and remodulation on a Channel3 or 4 TV carrier.

Data targeted to individual set top converters is received by the datareceiver 617′ according to each set top converter's specific address orID. In this way, each addressable set top converter only receives itsown data. The data receiver 617′ may receive set top converter 601specific data in the information field of the signal frame described oron a separate data carrier located at a convenient frequency in theincoming spectrum.

The received data includes information regarding electronic books andmenus available for selection. The subscriber may enter a series ofcommands 1015 using a keypad or remote control in order to choose anelectronic book or menu. Upon receipt of such commands, themicroprocessor 1013 instructs the tuner to tune to the proper frequencyof the channel carrying data and subsequently instructs the processingcircuitry 1017 to begin descrambling of this data.

Upon selection of the electronic book, the microprocessor 1013 storesany selection information in local memory (not shown) for later datatransmission back to the cable headend, The microprocessor 1013coordinates all CATV signal reception and also interacts with variousupstream data transmission components. Typically, the data transmitter1011 operates in the return frequency band between 5 and 30 MHZ. In analternative embodiment, the frequency band of 10 to 15 MHZ may be used.Regardless, however, of the frequency band used, the data transmitter1011 sends information to the cable headend in the information field ofthe response frame described. Those skilled in the art will recognizethat a number of variations and combinations of the above-described settop terminal hardware components may be used to accomplish upstream datatransmissions.

VI. Books-On-Demand System

The electronic book system 200 described may also be configured in abook-on-demand style. FIG. 18 a shows one example of a configuration fora books-on-demand system. A books-on-demand system requires morepowerful two-way communications between the consumer's home, bookstore,school or public library and either the operations center 250 or adistribution site 1020 such as the cable headend. This type of two-waycommunication can be provided by the hardware shown in FIG. 17 anddescribed above.

Referring to FIG. 18 a, in a books-on-demand system, the subscriberselects the electronic book to be download from an available menu ofelectronic books (see for example FIGS. 14 d and 14 e). The data formenus of available books is usually sent to the subscriber location bythe distribution site 1020. After the subscriber's menu selection,information about the subscriber selection (or request) is thencommunicated to either a distribution point 1020 (such as a cableheadend or an Internet web site) or the operations center 250. Uponreceipt of this request, the needed textual and graphical informationfor the book is spooled and sent to the subscriber. In this manner,books are only sent when requested by the subscriber and are sentimmediately upon demand for the book (or text).

In order to support such a books-on-demand system, the text delivery anddistribution must be conducted on a strong nodal architectureddistribution system, such as, a video-on-demand cable or telephonetelevision system, an Internet web site, or through use of individualtelephone access on the public telephone system.

The books-on-demand system allows for a greater selection of electronicbooks to the subscriber and limits the amount of communicated book datathat is unnecessary or unneeded. It also provides the electronic book tothe subscriber in a much timelier fashion.

In addition to a stronger distribution system, a books-on-demand systemrequires a distribution point 1020 to have more sophisticated equipmentto access and “spool out” the textual information. This can beaccomplished using file server technology 1024 for storing theelectronic books and ATM 1028 or telephone-type switching (not shown) todistribute the textual information. The file server 1024 anddistribution technology that can be used in configuring such abooks-on-demand system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,262,875 and U.S.Pat. No. 5,218,695, cited above.

FIG. 18 a shows an embodiment for a books-on-demand system that utilizesfile server technology. In addition to electronic books, the embodimentof FIG. 18 a will support distribution of nearly any digital data.Electronic books or textual files are received from publishers 282 andother sources through local feeds 1032, ATM 1028, or by satellite dish1036. The data is then stored in memory 1040 at the file server 1024.The distribution point 1020 may be a cable headend that receivesrequests from subscribers and delivers text to subscribers over atwo-way communication system (such as a video-on-demand system (VOD)1044). Alternately, an Internet web site may serve as the distributionpoint 1020.

The library unit 262 can be connected to either a basic premium-typeservice cable system 1048, a near video-on-demand type cable system (orpay-per-view (PPV) 1052) or a video-on-demand cable system 1044. Inconnecting with either of these three systems the library unit 262 mayaccess the cable directly or may access the system through a set topterminal 601′, 601″, or 601′″.

Using the two-way video-on-demand system 1044, a subscriber is able torequest a specific electronic book title and receive that textimmediately following its request. To accomplish this, the distributionpoint 1020 transmits a list of available electronic books through thecable delivery system to the library unit 262. The library unit 262displays the list of available electronic books on a menu or similarformat. As described earlier, it is preferred that the library unit 262use menus which list categories of available electronic books to formits request from the distribution point 1020. After selecting anelectronic book, the library unit 262 sends a request signal on thetwo-way communication system 1044 back to the distribution point 1020.This request signal can be handled in two ways. The library unit 262either initiates the request or the distribution point 1020 polls thevarious libraries on to the two-way system 1044. Upon receiving therequest for the electronic book title, the text associated with thatbook title is transmitted to the library unit 262 using the two-waycable system 1044.

FIG. 18 b is an expanded view of a preferred operations center 250 thatsupports a regional or national books-on-demand system. In fact, theoperations center 250 shown supports distribution of nearly any digitaldata. The operations center 250 supports multiple feeds to receivedigital information by tape 1060, 1060′, ATM 1028, or satellite 1036.The information is processed through an input MUX 1064 and a small fileserver 1068 before reaching the master file server 1072. Digital datasuch as electronic books received from publishers 282 is then stored onthe master file server 1072. It is preferred that the digital data isstored compressed in a standard format such as MPEG2.

A system controller 1076 provides control over the regional or nationalbooks-on-demand system. Electronic books may be packaged into groups toprovide feeds to various cable headends. In addition, scheduling andmarketing research are conducted at the operations center 250. In orderto handle the scheduling and market research, electronic book buy datais received at the operations center 250 through a multiplexer 1082.Electronic book buy information can be provided by the operation center250 to the billing and collection system 278.

The operations center 250 is also equipped to insert messages oradvertisements into the file server. These messages or advertisementswill eventually be received by the subscribers.

The master file server 1072 uses an output multiplexer 1080 and ATM 1028as well as satellite connections to distribute digital data. In apreferred embodiment, cable headends receive text data on electronicbooks from the master file server 1080 through the output multiplexer1028 and an ATM system 1028. After receiving the electronic book data,the cable headends store the books in a local file server 1024. FIG. 18a's distribution point 1020 is an example of a cable headend which mayreceive data from the operations center 250 of FIG. 18 b through an ATMhookup 1088 or satellite hookup.

VII. Voice Emulation Features for Electronic Books

FIG. 19 is a diagram of a main menu screen 1100 for presenting on theviewer 266 voice emulation options for electronic books. Main menu 1100may be displayed on the viewer 266 for permitting a user to selectvarious options relating to voice emulation in electronic books. Mainmenu 1100 has a number of sections for permitting the user to select theoptions by selecting an appropriate section. The term section refers toa definable portion of the screen, and the act of selecting a sectionmay involve, for example, positioning the cursor or a pointer over thesection using trackball 743 and depressing selection button 745 to“click on” the section; other cursor-control devices, includingperipheral devices, may be used to select a section either bypositioning the cursor or by entering a particular command. The sectionsin main menu 1100, and other described screens, may alternatively havedifferent shapes and may be displayed in a different configuration thanthat shown. In addition, the screens may have more or fewer sectionsdepending upon, for example, desired functions or displayed information.Also, main menu 1100 and the other described screens may be generatedfor display on the viewer 266, or retrieved from memory for display, bylibrary processor 628 operating under control of software modulesresiding within the instruction memory unit 632 or by viewer processor621 operating under control of software residing within the instructionmemory 732, or by hardware modules, or a combination of hardware andsoftware modules. A keyboard may be used with the viewer and key strokesmay be used for commands. Alternatively, a soft keyboard may bedisplayed on the viewer 266 and may be used to enter commands.

A manual text-to-speech section 1102 permits the user to select anoption to convert text within a displayed electronic book tocorresponding speech. The phrase text-to-speech refers to conversion oftext in electronic form to corresponding speech. An auto text-to-speechsection 1104 with auto page turn permits a user to select an option tohave the viewer continuously convert text to speech from page to pagewithin an electronic book. An auto text-to-speech section 1106 withmanual page turn permits a user to select an option to have the viewer266 automatically convert an entire page of displayed text to speech.For the various text-to-speech conversion features, the viewer 266 mayuse speaker/microphone 608′ to convert text in electronic form tocorresponding speech.

A view book section 1108 permits a user to select an option to view anelectronic book. A settings section 1110 permits a user to select anoption to view a settings menu and enter various parameters relating tothe voice emulation features. Settings are various parameters relatingto controls of an electronic book and associated functions. A dictationsection 1112 permits a user to select an option to perform dictationinto an electronic book. The term dictation refers to conversion ofspeech to corresponding text in electronic form capable of display on aviewer or other display device.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart of a main menu process 1120 for processingoptions selected by a user in main menu 1100. Main menu process 1120 maybe implemented within the viewer 266, the library 262, or a combination;for example, it may be implemented by software modules residing withinthe instruction memory unit 632 for execution by the library processor628 or within the instruction memory 732 for execution by the viewerprocessor 621, or by hardware modules, or a combination of hardware andsoftware modules. A display process 1122 displays main menu 1100 on theviewer 266, and a select process 1124 receives a user's selected optionwithin main menu 1100. A decision process 1123 determines if a voicesecurity function has been activated and, if so, main menu processexecutes a voice security routine 1125, further explained below. Voicesecurity is a feature permitting only users with a particular voicepattern or characteristic to have access to content of the viewer 266 orelectronic books stored within the viewer 266 or library 262. As aresult of voice security routine 1125, an authorization routine 1127determines if the user has authorization for the requested function.

If the user has authorization, an option process 1126 executesprocessing for the selected option. In particular, depending upon whichoption the user selected, various routines are performed. If the userselected manual text-to-speech section 1102, a speech process 1128executes a manual text-to-speech routine 1130. If the user selected autotext-to-speech section 1104, a speech process 1132 executes an autotext-to-speech (auto page turn) routine 1134. If the user selected autotext-to-speech section 1106, a speech process 1136 executes an autotext-to-speech (manual page turn) routine 1138. If the user selectedsetting section 1110, a settings process 1140 executes a settingsroutine 1142. If the user selected dictation section 1112, a dictationprocess 1144 executes a dictation routine 1146. If the user selectedview book section 1108, a view book process 1148 executes a view bookroutine 1150.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart of manual text-to-speech routine 1130. Manualtext-to-speech routine 1130 may be implemented within the viewer 266,the library 262, or a combination; for example, it may be implemented bysoftware modules residing within the instruction memory unit 632 forexecution by the library processor 628 or within the instruction memory732 for execution by the viewer processor 621, or by hardware modules,or a combination of hardware and software modules. In routine 1130, adisplay process 1160 displays a book menu. FIG. 22 illustrates a bookmenu screen 1190 for display on the viewer 266 and for displaying a bookmenu on the viewer 266. Book menu screen 1190 includes sections 1192,1194, and 1196 identifying stored electronic books. A selection process1162 receives a user's selected electronic book from book menu screen1190, and a display process 1164 displays the selected electronic bookon the viewer 266. A user may select an electronic book by positioningthe cursor on a section identifying the electronic book and selectingthe section or by entering a particular command. In using a voicecommands mode, a user may speak the title of a particular electronicbook, or other identifying information, in order to select it.

FIG. 23 illustrates a text screen 1200 for display on the viewer 266 andfor displaying a page of an electronic book. The text screen 1200 alsoincludes various sections for a user to enter commands. In particular, auser may select a page section 1208 and enter a page number into thesection in order to jump to another page of the displayed electronicbook. The user may select page turn sections 1210 and 1212 to pagebackward and forward, respectively, in the displayed electronic book.The user may select a convert section 1206 to convert selected text tospeech and select a pause section 1202 and a resume section 1204 topause and resume, respectively, the text-to-speech with manual page turnconversion. A define section 1207 permits the user to receivedefinitions, in speech form, of words selected in the text.

A display pages process 1166 displays pages of the electronic book asselected by the user by selecting, for example, a page section 1208 andpage turn sections 1210 and 1212. An indication process 1168 indicatesany text selected by a user. FIG. 24 illustrates an example of selectedtext 1214 in the text screen 1200. Although selected text is shown asshaded in the text screen 1200, selected text may be indicated in otherways such as by showing it underlined, in a different color thansurrounding text, in reverse video, in a different font than surroundingtext, in bold, or in another manner that distinguishes the selected textfrom surrounding text or information. A selection process 1170 receivesthe user's selection of convert section 1206 and, in response, adecision process 1172 determines if the user has selected text. If notext is selected, a display process 1174 may optionally display an errormessage indicating that text must be selected for conversion to speechin this mode. If text is selected, a conversion process 1176 convertsthe selected text to speech using, for example, a text-to-speechconversion program. Text-to-speech conversion programs are known in theart and examples include those programs disclosed in the following U.S.patents, which are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. No.5,848,390, entitled SPEECH SYNTHESIS SYSTEM AND ITS METHOD; U.S. Pat.No. 5,774,854, entitled TEXT TO SPEECH SYSTEM; U.S. Pat. No. 5,682,501,entitled SPEECH SYNTHESIS SYSTEM; U.S. Pat. No. 5,220,629, entitledSPEECH SYNTHESIS APPARATUS AND METHOD; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,449,entitled METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ALTERING VOICE CHARACTERISTICS OFSYNTHESIZED SPEECH. Other examples include products developed by theAT&T Advanced Speech Products Group. The Advanced Speech Products Groupcan be accessed at www.research.att.com/projects/watson/index.html.

Alternatively, underlying pointers tied to text can correspond topointers in a pre-recorded and stored audio version of the text,avoiding the need for real-time text-to-speech conversion. In thatexample, an electronic book file may contain both the text andcorresponding audio files or links to them. The audio files or links tothem may be stored within a header file for each electronic book. Theinformation contained in the header file is used to identify andcategorize each electronic book for display and other purposes, such assearching. As new electronic books are loaded on the viewer 266 orlibrary unit 262, this header information is extracted from the headerfile and stored in a database resident on the viewer 266 or library unit262, such as in memory 600 or 600′.

The header information associated with each electronic book typicallyincludes the information shown in Table 1 and can be stored, forexample, in records or other database structures. The header file maycontain a field for storing an audio file corresponding to text in theelectronic book, and may alternatively contain a field identifying alink to such an audio file. The audio files may contain an audio versionof the entire text of the electronic book or a portion of it. Inaddition, multiple audio files may be used for discrete elements orportions of text in the electronic book, and may potentially be linkedtogether based upon text selected by a user for conversion tocorresponding speech or audio.

TABLE 1 Title: Authors:  Primary Author:  Author 2:  Author 3:  Author4:  Author 5: ISBN #: Library of Congress # (LC#) Dewey DecimalClassification # (DDC#) Publisher: Edition Number: Date of Publishing:Related Categories:  Category 1 Category 6  Category 2 Category 7 Category 3 Category 8  Category 4 Category 9  Category 5 Category 10Related Keywords:  Keyword 1 Keyword 6  Keyword 2 Keyword 7  Keyword 3Keyword 8  Keyword 4 Keyword 9  Keyword 5 Keyword 10 User DefinedCriteria 1: User Defined Criteria 2: User Defined Criteria 3: UserDefined Criteria 4: User Defined Criteria 5: Book Summary/Description:User Entered Notes: Audio file: Link to audio file:

During the conversion, a selection process 1178 detects if the user hasselected pause section 1202. In response, a halt process 1180 stops thetext-to-speech conversion of the selected text. When the user selects aresume section 1204, as detected by a selection process 1182, theconversion process 1176 resumes the text-to-speech conversion of theselected text at a point where it was stopped. A decision process 1184determines if the user has closed the displayed electronic book and, ifso, a return process 1186 returns to the main menu to the display screen1100. A user may close a displayed electronic book by selecting an icondisplayed on the screen, for example, or by entering via a keyboard orother device a particular command.

In addition, a user may request and receive a definition, in speechform, of a word selected in the text. After selecting a word or words inthe selection process 1168, a user selection process 1161 receives auser's selection of a define section 1207. In response, a decisionprocess 1163 determines if text is selected; if not, display process1174 displays the optional error message. If text is selected, aretrieve process 1165 retrieves a definition for the selected word orwords from an electronic dictionary, and a conversion process 1167converts the definitions from an electronic dictionary to speech form.Electronic dictionaries are known in the art and an example includes thesystem disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,831,654, entitled APPARATUS FORMAKING AND EDITING DICTIONARY ENTRIES IN A TEXT TO SPEECH CONVERSIONSYSTEM, which is incorporated herein by reference. During theconversion, a user may select the pause section 1202, as detected by theselection process 1169, and in response a halt process 1171 stops thespeech-form definition. When a user selects the resume section 1204, asdetected by a selection process 1173, the conversion process 1167continues to provide the speech-form definition of the selected word orwords at a point where it was stopped.

FIG. 25 is a flow chart of auto text-to-speech routine 1134 with an autopage turn feature. Auto text-to-speech routine 1134 may be implementedwithin the viewer 266, the library 262, or a combination; for example,it may be implemented by software modules residing within theinstruction memory unit 632 for execution by the library processor 628or within the instruction memory 732 for execution by the viewerprocessor 621 using software modules, or by hardware modules, or acombination of hardware and software modules. In the auto text-to-speechroutine 1134, a display process 1220 displays a book menu, such as thebook menu screen 1190. A selection process 1222 receives a user'sselected book from the book menu, and in response a display process 1224displays the selected electronic book such as in the text screen 1200shown.

A conversion process 1226 continuously converts text to speech in thedisplayed book from page to page using, for example, a text-to-speechconversion program. In addition, the conversion process 1226automatically turns the pages to display a current page for whichtext-to-speech conversion occurs. Text-to-speech conversion programs areknown in the art and examples include those programs disclosed in thetext-to-speech conversion program patents identified above and theproducts developed by the AT&T Advanced Speech Products Group.Alternatively, the header file for the electronic book may contain anaudio file of the text of the electronic book, or a link to such a file,for presentation of the text in speech form. During the conversion, auser may select the pause section 1202, as detected by a selectionprocess 1228, and in response a halt process 1230 stops thetext-to-speech conversion. If a user selects the resume section 1204, asdetected by a selection process 1232, the conversion process 1226resumes the text-to-speech conversion at a point where it was stopped.Once the entire electronic book has been converted, or the user closesthe electronic book as determined by a close book process 1227, a returnprocess 1234 returns to the main menu to display the main menu screen1100 (shown in FIG. 9).

FIG. 26 is a flow chart of auto text-to-speech routine 1138 with amanual page turn feature. Auto text-to-speech routine 1138 may beimplemented within the viewer 266, the library 262, or a combination;for example, it may be implemented by software Modules residing withinthe instruction memory unit 632 for execution by the library processor628 or within the instruction memory 732 for execution by the viewerprocessor 621, or by hardware modules, or a combination of hardware andsoftware modules. In the auto text-to-speech routine 1138, a displayprocess 1240 displays a book menu, such as book menu screen 1190. Aselection process 1242 receives a user's selected book from the bookmenu, and in response a display process 1244 displays the selectedelectronic book such as in the text screen 1200.

A conversion process 1246 continuously converts text to speech in thedisplayed book from the displayed page using, for example, atext-to-speech conversion program. Text-to-speech conversion programsare known in the art and examples include those programs disclosed inthe text-to-speech conversion program patents identified above and theproducts developed by the AT&T Advanced Speech Products Group.Alternatively, the header file for the electronic book may contain aseparate audio file of the text of each page of the electronic book, orlinks to such files, for presentation of the text in speech form for thepages as selected by a user. In particular, when a user selects aparticular page, the conversion process 1246 may retrieve thecorresponding audio file to present the text on that page in speechform. A decision process 1254 determines if the text-to-speechconversion has reached the end of the displayed page and, if not, theconversion continues for the displayed page. During the conversion, theuser may select pause section 1202, as detected by a selection process1248, and in response a halt process 1250 stops the text-to-speechconversion. If a user selects the resume section 1204, as detected by aselection process 1252, the conversion process 1246 resumes thetext-to-speech conversion at a point where it was stopped.

Once the textual content of the current page of the displayed electronicbook has been converted, as determined by decision process 1254, adecision process 1256 determines if the end of the book is displayed. Ifthe electronic book has more pages for display, a wait process 1258waits for the user to select another page. A selection process 1260receives the user's next selected page and in response returns toconversion process 1246 to perform text-to-speech conversion for thenext displayed page using, for example, a text-to-speech program, as areknown in the art, or using corresponding audio files. If the end of thebook is displayed, as determined by decision process 1256, or if theuser closes the book as determined by a close book process 1253, areturn process 1262 returns to the main menu to display the main menuscreen 1100.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart of a settings routine 1142. The settings routine1142 may be implemented within the viewer 266, the library 262, or acombination; for example, it may be implemented by software modulesresiding within the instruction memory unit 632 for execution by thelibrary processor 628 or within the instruction memory 732 for executionby the viewer processor 621, or by hardware modules, or a combination ofhardware and software modules. In the settings routine 1142, a displayprocess 1270 displays a settings menu.

FIG. 28 illustrates an example of a settings menu screen 1280 fordisplay on the viewer 266. The settings menu screen 1280 includes avoice commands section 1282 to activate and deactivate voice commands byselecting certain activate and deactivate sections 1284 and 1286,respectively. A user may select the activate or deactivate options by,for example, positioning a cursor over the corresponding section next tothe desired option and selecting the section, or by entering variousother commands such as a particular selection of input keys. Voice oraudible commands are the ability of the viewer 266 to execute a functioncorresponding to a command provided by a user in speech form. Thesettings menu screen 1280 also includes an available voice commandssection 1311, identifying voice or audible commands available to a userand the following exemplary speech required to execute the command:“page forward” command 1303; “page backward” command 1305; “open book”command 1307; and other functions 1309.

The settings menu screen 1280 also includes a rate section 1288 forsetting a rate of text-to-speech conversion by manipulating a marker1290 and moving the marker along the displayed rate scale. The term raterefers to the relative speed at which text is converted intocorresponding speech. The machine speech conversion can be doneelectronically in advance, but the speech is provided at a certain pacedetermined by the user. Text-to-speech conversion programs, along withthe ability to change a rate of the conversion, are known in the art andexamples include the text-to-speech conversion program patentsidentified above and the products developed by the AT&T Advanced SpeechProducts Group.

A voice security section 1287 permits a user to activate and deactivatea voice security feature by selecting, respectively, sections 1289 and1291. A voice security feature provides for activation of the viewer 266and access to stored electronic books only in response to a voicecommand from a particular user or particular users.

The settings menu screen 1280 also includes a voice options section 1301permitting a user to select various options for speech used to converttext. These options include, for example, a male voice 1313; a femalevoice 1315; a child's voice 1317; voice option 1 (1319); and voiceoption N (1321). A user may select one of these options by, for example,positioning a cursor over the corresponding section next to the desiredoption and selecting the section, or by entering various other commandssuch as a particular selection of input keys. Other options 1319 and1321 may represent other types of voices such as user-defined voices,voices with particular characteristics, or the actual author's voice,for example. The other options 1319 and 1321 could also include thevoice of a famous person, such as James Earl Jones or an imitation ofJames Earl Jones, for example. Text-to-speech conversion programs, alongwith varying types of voices for the conversion, are known in the artand examples include the text-to-speech conversion program patentsidentified above and the products developed by the AT&T Advanced SpeechProducts Group.

Once the text-to-speech process is executed in the viewer 266, theviewer may display a fixed (JPEG) or moving (MPEG 2) image. Thedisplayed image may be retrieved by the viewer 266 from a specificdatabase related to the electronic book being viewed. Alternatively, theviewer may access such an image using an electronic link. Use ofelectronic links in an electronic book are described in detail inco-pending patent application Ser. No. 09/237,828, entitled ELECTRONICBOOKS ELECTRONIC LINKS, filed Jan. 27, 1999, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference.

As shown in FIG. 27, a receive process 1272 receives a user's selectedsettings in settings menu screen 1280. In response, a save process 1274saves the selected settings for later use in providing text-to-speechfunctions or receiving voice commands. The settings may be saved in atable or other data structure in the instruction memory unit 632 orwithin the instruction memory 732 for use in controlling functionsrelated to the electronic books. A decision process 1276 determines ifthe user closes settings menu screen 1280 and, if so, a return process1278 returns to the main menu to display the main menu screen 1100.

FIG. 29 is a flow chart of a dictation routine 1146. The dictationroutine 1146 may be implemented within the viewer 266, the library 262,or a combination; for example, it may be implemented by software modulesresiding within the instruction memory unit 632 for execution by thelibrary processor 628 or within the instruction memory 732 for executionby the viewer processor 621, or by hardware modules, or a combination ofhardware and software modules. In the dictation routine 1146, a displayprocess 1300 displays a book menu, such as book menu screen 1190. Aselection process 1302 receives a user's selected book from the bookmenu, and in response a display process 1304 displays the selectedelectronic book. A display pages process 1306 displays pages of theelectronic book as selected by the user.

FIG. 30 a illustrates a text dictation screen 1330 for display on theviewer 266 and for use with a dictation routine 1146. The text dictationscreen includes a page section 1336 for permitting the user to enter apage number and have that page displayed. Page turn sections 1338 and1340 permit a user to page backward and forward, respectively, in thedisplayed electronic book. A begin dictation section 1332 permits a userto begin speech-to-text conversion, and an end dictation section 1334permits a user to end speech-to-text conversion. Text dictation screen1330 indicates that, when an insertion point is chosen by the user,speech is converted to text directly within the page of the displayedelectronic book at, for example, location 1341. The text insertion pointmay be indicated by the user positioning a cursor 1343 to a desiredlocation on the page. FIG. 30 b illustrates that text dictation screen1330 may also include a separate section 1342 for displaying textconverted from speech, particularly when the user does not specify aninsertion point.

A selection process 1308 detects when a user has selected the begindictation section 1332. In response, a conversion process 1310 receivesspeech and converts it to corresponding text, and it may receive thespeech from the user via speaker/microphone 608 s. Speech-to-text andspeech recognition programs are known in the art and examples includethose programs disclosed in the following U.S. patents, which areincorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. No. 5,864,805, entitledMETHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ERROR CORRECTION IN A CONTINUOUS DICTATIONSYSTEM; U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,278, entitled SPEECH RECOGNITION SYSTEM ANDMETHOD USING A HIDDEN MARKOV MODEL; U.S. Pat. No. 5,615,299, entitledSPEECH RECOGNITION USING DYNAMIC FEATURES; U.S. Pat. No. 5,325,462,entitled SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SPEECH SYNTHESIS EMPLOYING IMPROVEDFORMAT COMPOSITION; U.S. Pat. No. 5,313,531, entitled METHOD ANDAPPARATUS FOR SPEECH ANALYSIS AND SPEECH RECOGNITION; U.S. Pat. No.5,054,074, entitled OPTIMIZED SPEECH RECOGNITION SYSTEM AND METHOD; U.S.Pat. No. 5,050,215, entitled SPEECH RECOGNITION METHOD; and U.S. Pat.No. 4,430,726, entitled DICTATION/TRANSCRIPTION METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT.Other examples include products developed by the AT&T Advanced SpeechProducts Group.

A decision process 1312 determines if the user has selected an insertionpoint for the text, which may be indicated by positioning the cursor. Ifthe user has selected an insertion point, an insert process 1316 insertsthe text at the user-selected point. Otherwise, if the user has notselected an insertion point, an insertion process 1314 may insert thetext in the separate displayed section 1342. A decision process 1318determines if the user has selected the end dictation section 1334.Until the user selects the end dictation section 1334, conversionprocess 1310 continues converting speech into text. When the userselects the end dictation section 1334, a decision process 1320determines if the user has closed the book and, if not, the dictationroutine 1146 returns to display pages process 1306 in order to continuedisplaying pages and converting speech into text as requested by theuser. If the user closes the book, a return process 1322 returns to themain menu to display the main menu screen 1100.

FIG. 31 is a flow chart of a view book routine 1150. The view bookroutine 1150 may be implemented within the viewer 266, the library 262,or a combination; for example, it may be implemented by software modulesresiding within the instruction memory unit 632 for execution by thelibrary processor 628 or within the instruction memory 732 for executionby the viewer processor 621, or by hardware modules, or a combination ofhardware and software modules. In the view book routine 1150, a displayprocess 1350 a displays book menu, such as book menu screen 1190. Aselection process 1352 receives a user's selected book from the bookmenu, and in response a display process 1354 displays the selectedelectronic book.

FIG. 32 illustrates an example of a view book screen 1370 for displayingon the viewer 266 a cover page 1372 of the selected electronic book. Theview book screen 1370 also includes page backward section 1374 and pageforward section 1376 for permitting a user to page backward and forward,respectively, within the displayed electronic book. A display pagesprocess 1356 displays pages of the selected electronic book as requestedby the user. A decision process 1358 determines if the user has closedthe displayed electronic book and, if the user closes the book, a returnprocess 1360 returns to the main menu to display the main menu screen1100.

The viewer 266 may also incorporate text to speech conversion and textrecognition features to guide the user through the menu system 851,shown in FIG. 13. For example, software resident on the viewer 266, oron another component of the home system 258 may be used to provide audioprompts related to menu navigation. When the user activates the menusystem 851 and is presented with the main menu 854, the viewer 266 couldprovide an audio prompt such as: “Hello John. Do you want to order a newbook or read an existing book? Please respond new book or existingbook.” If the user responds with “existing book,” then the softwareoperating on the viewer 266 may display the Books in Your Librarysubmenu 872, and may provide further audio prompts.

FIG. 33 is a flow chart of a voice commands routine 1380. The voicecommands routine 1380 may be implemented within the viewer 266, thelibrary 262, or a combination; for example, it may be implemented bysoftware modules residing within the instruction memory unit 632 forexecution by the library processor 628 or within the instruction memory732 for execution by the viewer processor 621, or by hardware modules,or a combination of hardware and software modules. This routine permitsa user to enter commands via speech, rather than manipulating the viewercontrols to enter commands. In the voice commands routine 1380, adecision process 1382 determines if the user has activated the voicecommands option. If the option is activated, a receive process 1384receives a voice command, and it may receive the voice command from auser via the microphone 634.

A conversion process 1386 converts the voice command to a correspondingelectronic signal, and a determination process 1388 determines therequested function by analyzing the electronic signal. Examples offunctions corresponding to the command include a turn page forwardfunction 1390 for the viewer 266 to display the next page in thedisplayed electronic book; a turn page backward function 1392 for theviewer 266 to display the previous page in the displayed electronicbook; an open book function 1394 for the viewer 266 to display aparticular electronic book; or other functions 1396. After determiningthe requested function, an execute process 1398 executes the requestedfunction. The viewer 266 may display typical voice command optionsavailable to assist the user in understanding the voice commands actedupon by the viewer 266 at a given point in time. The determinationprocess 1388 may use speech recognition programs for the determination;such programs are known in the art and include those exemplary systemsin the speech-to-text and speech recognition patents identified aboveand the products available from the AT&T Advanced Speech Products Group.

FIG. 34 is a flow chart of a voice security routine 1125. Voice securityroutine 1125 may be implemented within the viewer 266, the library 262,or a combination; for example, it may be implemented by software modulesresiding within the instruction memory unit 632 for execution by thelibrary processor 628 or within the instruction memory 732 for executionby the viewer processor 621, or by hardware modules, or a combination ofhardware and software modules. In a voice security routine 1125, arequest process 1404 requests an audible signal for security purposes,and it may be requested via a screen on the viewer 266 or in audio form.A receive process 1405 receives the requested audible signal using themicrophone 634, and a conversion process 1406 converts the audiblesignal to a corresponding electronic signal. A compare process 1408compares the electronic signal with a stored signal, and a decisionprocess 1410 determines if the electronic signal satisfies particularcriteria in order to determine if the user has authorization for arequested function.

The decision process 1410 may use speech recognition programs for thedetermination; such programs are known in the art and include thoseexemplary systems in the speech-to-text and speech recognition patentsidentified above and the products available from the AT&T AdvancedSpeech Products Group. If the criteria are not satisfied, a deny process1412 denies authorization to execute commands from the user and, if thecriteria are satisfied, a grant process 1414 grants authorization toexecute commands from the user. Main menu process 1120 uses the grantedor denied status to determine whether to executed a user's requestedfunction.

The viewer 266 may also include software that restricts access tospecific electronic books based on recognizing a voice of a user. Forexample, the viewer 266 may determine that a particular user is a child,and then limit access to specific electronic books authorized by aparent for that child to view. Alternatively, the viewer could preventaccess to specific electronic books designated by the parent. The sameaccess limitation software may be used to limit access by two or moreusers to content in the viewer 266 or the home system 258. For example,two adult users of a same viewer 266 may limit access by agreeing thatonly a first adult user views books one through ten, a second adult useronly views books eleven through 20, and that both adult users view books21 through 30.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with theembodiments described above, it is evident that many alterations,modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in theart. Accordingly, embodiments of the invention as set forth above areintended to be only illustrative. Various changes may be made withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention as defined in the followingclaims and their equivalents.

1. (canceled)
 2. A method for inserting text into an electronic bookdisplayed on a viewer comprising: displaying a page of an electronicbook on a screen of a viewer; displaying a first section on the screenfor permitting a user to request a speech-to-text conversion; receivinga first indication, based on a user interaction with the first sectionof the screen, the first indication requesting a speech-to-textconversion; in response to receiving the first indication, receivingspeech from the user; converting the received speech into correspondingelectronic text; and determining whether the user has provided a secondindication designating a text insertion point; and displaying theelectronic text on a second section of the screen based on thedetermination.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the method furthercomprises: receiving the second indication designating a text insertionpoint within the electronic book; and inserting the electronic textwithin the electronic book at a location corresponding to the textinsertion point.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the method furthercomprises displaying a text insertion cursor for designating the textinsertion point.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the text insertionpoint comprises a location of the text insertion cursor within theelectronic book.
 6. The method of claim 2, wherein determining whetherthe user has provided the second indication comprises determining thatthe user has not provided the second indication and wherein the secondsection of the screen comprises a section separate from the displayedpage of the electronic book.
 7. A viewer apparatus for displaying anelectronic book comprising: a display screen configured to display apage of an electronic book; a first interface configured to receive afirst indication requesting a speech-to-text conversion; a secondinterface configured to receive speech from the user in response to thefirst interface receiving the first indication; and a processorcommunicatively coupled to the display screen, the first interface, andthe second interface, the processor being configured to convert speechreceived by the second interface into corresponding electronic text, tomake a determination as to whether the user has provided a secondindication via the first interface designating a text insertion point,and to cause the display screen to display the electronic text based onthe determination.
 8. The viewer apparatus of claim 7, wherein thesecond indication designates a text insertion point within an electronicbook, and wherein the text insertion point comprises a location withinthe electronic book.
 9. The viewer apparatus of claim 8, wherein thedisplay screen is further configured to display a text insertion cursorfor designating the text insertion point within the electronic book. 10.The viewer apparatus of claim 9, wherein the text insertion pointcomprises a location of the text insertion cursor within the electronicbook.
 11. The viewer apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first interfacecomprises a touch interface associated with the display screen and thefirst indication is received in response to a user touching a portion ofthe display screen.